2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Sturgeon Bay, WI US
Built in 2002
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Video Tours
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed as an excellent transitional boat for those moving up from bow riders to a true cruising vessel. It offers a blend of comfortable accommodations, practical features, and solid performance, making it well suited for cruising enthusiasts seeking a versatile and well-equipped boat.
Interior Living Spaces
Below deck, the salon provides a generous headroom of 6 feet 2 inches, which tapers as you move forward toward the bow dinette area. The bow features wraparound banquet seating with a table that conveniently drops down to form a large double berth. Natural light fills the space through an opening hatch and a substantial 29 by 24-inch skylight, which also includes a blackout shade for privacy or late mornings. The galley is modestly sized but adequately equipped for the 280 Sundancer, accommodating standard appliances such as a stove, microwave, and refrigerator/freezer. The mid cabin offers 2 feet 2 inches of headroom, with a raised section under the helm seat increasing to 3 feet 2 inches. This area includes an opening port light that connects visually to the cockpit. The berth in the mid cabin measures 5 feet 11 inches long by 4 feet 1.5 inches wide, providing a comfortable private sleeping area.
Power and Performance
Powered by a MerCruiser 300 horsepower 350 MAG engine paired with a Bravo 3 outdrive, the 280 Sundancer achieves a top speed of 41.5 miles per hour at 5260 RPM. At this speed, fuel consumption is 23.4 gallons per hour, yielding a range of approximately 134 miles. The most efficient cruise speed was found at 3500 RPM, delivering 23.6 miles per hour with a fuel burn of 9.7 gallons per hour. At this pace, the boat can run for nearly 7 hours and 48 minutes, covering 184 miles while maintaining a 10% fuel reserve. Acceleration is brisk, with a time to plane of 4.8 seconds, reaching 20 mph in 8.3 seconds, 30 mph in 14.2 seconds, and 40 mph in 21.9 seconds. The boat exhibits a 12-degree bow rise during acceleration without compromising forward visibility, and cruises at a 5-degree bow-high angle with minimal trim adjustments. Handling is responsive, with comfortable 18-degree rolls into hard turns and only minor prop ventilation that is easily corrected by adjusting the drive. Despite its single-engine configuration, the 280 Sundancer is notably maneuverable in tight docking situations.
Cockpit and Exterior Features
The cockpit of the 280 Sundancer is well-appointed with a wet bar featuring a sink and space for an optional grill. Below the bar is a carry-on cooler that can be replaced with a cockpit refrigerator. Above, a sports spoiler supports a standard Bimini top equipped with side curtains for protection against inclement weather. The helm station is clean and functional, outfitted with three gauges including a SmartCraft gauge and a 4-in-1 gauge, with space below for an optional touchscreen chart plotter. A standard VHF radio is included, and the helm console is finished with a tasteful faux Burledwood fascia. The helm seat swivels and the seat back reverses, allowing up to seven people to comfortably face each other around the cockpit table, a design feature borrowed from larger Sea Ray models. The engine hatch is electrically actuated, revealing a gel-coated engine room equipped with a standard automatic fire extinguisher. Optional powerplants include a 283 horsepower diesel engine or a 380 horsepower gasoline engine. Access to the bow is via center-mounted steps leading through a walk-through windshield. The bow area is surrounded by non-skid decking and features a large skylight and opening forward hatch. It is molded to accommodate optional equipment such as a windlass, stainless steel anchor roller, and a 5-inch remote spotlight, with a hatch providing easy access beneath the windlass for anchor line management. At the stern, storage is available behind the aft cockpit seat, which also folds down to form a sun pad. A microswitch alerts the captain when the seat is reclined, ensuring safety by preventing operation while underway.
Conclusion
Overall, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer presents itself as a well-rounded, transitional cruiser that offers nearly all the essentials needed for enjoyable cruising. It combines comfortable interior accommodations, thoughtful cockpit amenities, and respectable performance characteristics. The inclusion of several upgraded features and optional powerplants further enhances its appeal. This model is well suited for boaters seeking a capable and comfortable step up from smaller recreational boats.
Overview from around the web 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
The 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is widely appreciated among boat enthusiasts for its impressive blend of style, comfort, and performance
Customers frequently highlight the boat's spacious cabin and well-designed layout, which make it ideal for weekend getaways and family outings. Many owners praise the high-quality marine finishes and attention to detail in the craftsmanship, emphasizing the luxurious feel of the interior. The cockpit area is often noted for its generous seating and ease of access, perfect for entertaining guests while enjoying a day on the water. Performance-wise, the 280 Sundancer garners positive reviews for its reliable engines and smooth handling, making it suitable for both leisurely cruising and more adventurous outings. Boaters also appreciate its stability and responsiveness, which enhance the overall experience on the water. In terms of amenities, the inclusion of a full galley, comfortable sleeping quarters, and a well-appointed head adds to the overall allure. Customers also find the storage solutions practical for longer trips, allowing them to bring along everything they need for a fun-filled day. Overall, the 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has earned a solid reputation for its versatility, comfort, and dependability, making it a beloved choice among those in the boating community.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular choice among boating enthusiasts, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Layout: The Sundancer features a well-designed cabin with ample space for relaxation and entertaining. Its open cockpit and salon make it ideal for social gatherings.
Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: With a forward V-berth and a mid-cabin area, it can comfortably accommodate multiple guests for overnight trips.
Powerful Performance: Equipped with twin engines, the 280 Sundancer offers impressive speed and maneuverability, making it fun for cruising or water sports.
Full Galley: The well-appointed galley includes a refrigerator, microwave, and stove, enabling you to prepare meals while onboard.
Quality Construction: Sea Ray is known for its solid build quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that the 280 Sundancer is durable and reliable.
Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit features comfortable seating and a wet bar, making it perfect for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.
Good Resale Value: Sea Ray boats typically hold their value well, making them a solid investment for boaters.
Cons
Limited Storage: While the layout is spacious, some users find that storage options can be limited, particularly for extended trips.
Older Technology: As a 2002 model, the electronics and navigation systems may not be as advanced as those found in newer models.
Fuel Consumption: The twin-engine setup can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to smaller, single-engine boats, especially during extended cruising.
Maintenance Costs: Older boats may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, which can add to long-term ownership costs.
Weight and Trailerability: The 280 Sundancer is relatively heavy, which can make it challenging to trailer and launch, depending on your vehicle's towing capacity.
Limited Headroom in Some Areas: Depending on the height of your guests, some areas below deck might feel cramped, particularly in the head compartment.
Made For
The 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is ideal for a wide range of boating enthusiasts, from families seeking comfortable day trips to couples looking for a weekend getaway on the water. With its spacious cabin and thoughtful layout, this model caters to those who appreciate both performance and leisure. Its strong performance, powered by twin MerCruiser engines, appeals to individuals who enjoy cruising at high speeds while maintaining stability and handling. The 280 Sundancer's versatility makes it perfect for both seasoned boaters who want an all-around vessel and newcomers eager to explore the open waters in style and comfort. Additionally, with ample seating both inside and on the deck, it is perfect for social gatherings or entertaining friends and family. The boat’s well-equipped galley and cozy sleeping quarters add convenience and comfort, appealing to anyone looking to extend their time on the water. Overall, the 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is crafted for those who appreciate luxury and functionality in a classic, timeless design.
Finance your dream boat!
Finance your dream boat!
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Meet the Broker
Address
Want to update the details or images for this boat? Claim this listing by getting in touch.
Contact the dealer about 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Sturgeon Bay, WI
Login with Google